Three police officers required hospital treatment and a further 18 sustained minor injuries as they battled to shut down an illegal rave at Twyford Wood near Corby Glen.

The rave began last night (Saturday) at around 11pm, attracting more than 1,000 party-goers. Around 200 people remain at the site this afternoon, according to a Lincolnshire Police spokesman.

Also injured was police dog Blue. The force’s dog section, @LincsPoliceK999, tweeted just minutes ago: “PD Blue was struck by a bottle thrown at police and shattered as it hit him. No serious injury thankfully. 4 days well deserved rest now. Handler Craggy ok also. Thanks to all well-wishers.”

Four arrests – three women and one man – were made initially. This number has risen to 16 over the course of the day, for various offences relating to the illegal rave.

Officers remain at the site to prevent entry to the area and will continue to do so.

One lane of the southbound carriageway of the A1 is closed to ensure the safety of people walking away from the site and returning to their cars, of which dozens were left alongside the busy road.